The One Trait We Should Develop as Leaders

Posted on February 15, 2016

“Before you are a leader, success is all about growing yourself. When you become a leader, success is all about growing others.” (Jack Welch)

Many people see the world as a giant competition and are more focused on their own personal growth and success, it is refreshing to find people who genuinely want to build others up. The greatest and most valuable leaders are people builders. Yes, you can succeed and become rich without this skill, but you will have the strongest positive impact on others if you can help others build their strengths.

People builders are the ones who help others reach their greatest potential and inspire others to succeed, regardless of whether or not they have the title. People builders:

build up their team’s strengths and give constructive feedback to help improve on weaknesses

make the best teammates because they value everyone’s contribution

ignite a passion in others and motivate others to rise to greatness

help others get out of a rut and guide them in the right direction

build bridges with others team

ask for feedback on their performance

People builders are not:

condescending

discouraging

belittling

indifferent

They know that this only results in demotivation, ineffectiveness, complacency, and in some cases, defensiveness.

However, people builders do not ignore mistakes or shy away from giving criticism. They know how to balance praises & criticism, and use the latter as an opportunity to help others overcome a weakness. They do it in a manner that does not diminish self-worth, but rather increases it and subsequently determination. They know that building the confidence of people through genuine encourage is a greater way to drive stronger performance.

“Outstanding leaders go out of their way to boost the self-esteem of their personnel. If people believe in themselves, it’s amazing what they can accomplish.” (Sam Walton, founder of Wal-Mart)

People builders grow by helping others grow. They are the people in your network that you want to become future leaders, or at the very least, wish to be more like.

The great thing is that everyone can be a people builder, with some practice and commitment

Let’s consider this our assignment for the week:

Identify 2 people in your network that you want to help grow.

Recognize the good in others. Thank or praise at least one person a day.

Strive to make every interaction positive. “Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier.” (Mother Teresa)

You don’t need a title or subordinates to be a people-builder. In your interactions, leave something behind to help others feel confident and motivated. In turn, you will find grow as a leader.

Stephanie is a product marketer currently based in London, with a degree in Business & French from the University of Toronto. When she's not working with fun brands, she loves to go backpacking, volunteering, being creative and connecting with like-minded people from all over the world.

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